Why a Public Anthropology?

In the latest issue of American Anthropologist, David Vine thoughtfully reviews Robert Borofsky’s Center for a Public Anthropology and its four major projects. Vine discusses the role the Center has played outside the world of academia and includes discussion on the highly successful and innovative Community Action Project. This unique project teaches university students how to craft op-ed pieces on ethical issues in anthropology and are encouraged to send these letters to politicians, and newspapers demanding action. Currently, 8,000 U.S. students a year from 66 colleges and universities participate in the project in an online format.